New Mexico ranks as one of the worst states on the Child-Welfare Index. It is critical that we provide greater resources to engage students in science and nature. In 2012, only 21% of New Mexico’s 8th graders were proficient in science, with Hispanic and low income students farther behind. Audubon New Mexico teaches our Birds of a Feather Explore Together Environmental Education program, which is directly aligned with New Mexico’s science standards and benchmarks and helps students understand that birds and humans share needs and habitats. Importantly, it addresses how birds play a critical role in indicating the health of our world and how changes in their circumstance warn of threats to habitats and natural systems critical to all life. Students develop knowledge about birds through experiential activities focusing on bird adaptations - feathers, nests, eggs, beaks, claws and talons - as well as the scientific dissection of owl pellets. Students also experience an “outdoor classroom” as they observe local bird species, plants and animals.

When the environment is a context for learning, students perform better on standardized tests in all subjects and show increased engagement and enthusiasm for learning. Audubon has specifically designed our Environmental Education programs toward these goals.

For many teachers, Audubon programs are the only substantive science lessons their students receive. Help us give ALL CHILDREN the opportunity to experience the wonders of nature and science – they are the next-generation stewards to protect New Mexico’s precious natural resources.

Make an online donation NOW or contact Maryam Miller, Deputy Director, at (505) 983-4609, ext. 24, to find out more about how you can make a transformational gift to our Environmental Education programs.